AutoMotion Blog

How to Measure Performance with a Chevrolet Corvette Stingray

At the 2014 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, Chevrolet announced that it would offer an optional Performance Data Recorder for the 2015 Corvette Stingray. The new Corvette Performance Data Recorder (PDR) will capture high-definition video and audio, complete with telemetry overlays, so that Stingray owners can review their driving experiences and improve their track times. Corvette buyers choosing this option will be able to view the video on the car's in-dash display screen as long as the vehicle is parked, and download data for examination or sharing via social media.

"The Performance Data Recorder combines the ability to record and share drive videos with the power of a professional-level motorsports telemetry system," said Tadge Juechter, Corvette chief engineer. "Drivers can easily record and share their experiences driving down the Tail of the Dragon or lapping Road Atlanta."

Developed by Cosworth, the company that supplies the Corvette Racing Team's data acquisition and telemetry systems, the Corvette Stingray's PDR includes a 720-pixel high-definition camera that captures driver's point-of-view video, an in-cabin microphone, a 5-hertz GPS receiver and telemetry recorder hard-wired to the car's Controller Area Network, and a dedicated SD card slot inside of the glove box to make it easy to transfer video and data to your home computer, laptop, or other device. An 8 GB card holds about 200 minutes of data, while a 32 GB card can store up to 13 hours of information.

When recording data, overlay options include Track, Sport, Touring, and Performance modes, each displaying different details and information atop the captured video. Cosworth Toolbox software is also included with the new PDR option, allowing Corvette Stingray owners to analyze their driving performance and find opportunities for improvement. Of the system's ability to allow drivers to review laps, Juechter said: "It's like having a 32-gigabyte crew chief trackside providing you with real-time feedback."